Richard “Pat” “Doc” Smith, age 68, of Graettinger, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, February 28, 2026.
A Celebration of Life Visitation will be held from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM on Saturday, March 7, at Martin-Mattice Funeral Home in Emmetsburg, with a Prayer Service beginning at 3:00 PM. Prayer Service will be livestreamed via Martin Mattice Funeral Home’s website:https://www.hdezwebcast.com/show/richard-pat-smith. Services have been entrusted to Martin-Mattice Funeral Home of Emmetsburg.
Richard Patrick Smith, lovingly known as Pat or “Doc,” was born on July 11, 1957, in Emmetsburg, Iowa, to Gordon and Elaine (Gappa) Smith. He graduated from Emmetsburg High School in 1976. Following graduation, Pat worked for several companies throughout the years, including Cargill, Flanagan Western, Skyjack, and Moveero “GKN”. He was known for his strong work ethic and dedication.
Pat had a deep love for farming, but nothing brought him more joy than spending time with his family. He especially cherished his vacations at Sunset Cove Resort, where he could often be found fishing on Cass Lake — a place that brought him peace, laughter, and countless memories with those he loved most.
Left to cherish Pat’s memory are Kathy Smith of Graettinger; his children, Jodi Duhn, Corey Willems, Heather Willems, and Courtney Smith; twelve grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, Charles (Chris) Smith, Connie Smith, Karen Orwig, Andy Smith, and Kim Smith.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Gordon and Elaine Smith; his siblings, Cathy Peters, Tom Smith, and Bill Smith; and his brother-in-law, Dan Orwig.
Pat will be remembered for his love of family, his dedication to hard work, and the many stories shared around a fishing pole and a quiet lake. His presence will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
martinmatticefuneralhome.com